The Thousands

Note: Doctor Pong closed on 30 April 2011

Sup, Burton Street? Oh nothing, just opening another bar. First we had Pocket, then The Pond arrived the other week, and now we have Doctor Pong. Occupying the spacious, airy room that was once Chicane, Doctor Pong wholly embraces the unfussy concept of the Berlin original – on a larger scale. Huge open windows look across the outdoor street seating, while inside is dominated by a ping-pong table, decks, rows of ‘Chesterfields’ and a dining area. If that description sounds sparse, it’s because it should be – little has been done to the bare concrete of the space, and in this case less is more.**The ad-hoc feel is heightened by beers served in keg-party red cups, an affectation I thoroughly endorse, and hand-written coasters. The wine list is kind of limited, but is a very affordable option, especially in a place that’s actively taking the bullshit out of drinking. Happy hour, which nets you 2-4-1 beers, is currently on ’til as late as they feel (ie enough people are in), so all early adopters will be rewarded.

All up it’s a successful recipe in a prime spot, so there’s no reason why Doctor Pong’s ‘beer, beats and ping-pong’ philosophy shouldn’t catch on.